In this season of Epiphany we would think of God's light shining upon us. This emphasis brings us to the reading from Isaiah 9:1-4 for this Sunday which will form the text of my message. We have these words:

"The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness --on them light has shined. You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian." Isaiah 9:2-4

Israel was in deep darkness having lost land to the country of Assyria and being taken captive. Now the prophet is talking about a new time of reclaiming the land. God's intervention - God's light - would win them the victory!

I would invite you to think about the "darkness" in our world today - how people are being oppressed, where evil might abound, where people are neglected or maginalized. How might God's light bring some good news to them and how might the church play a role here? You probably could name some instances where the church has helped to combat evil and bring hope to people.

Think of your own invidual life and times of despair. Are you able to let God's word shed some light into your life? If you are going through a time of darkness, I would invite you to search the Scriptures. You will be able to find hope in God's word.

For this Sunday, I would ask you to reflect on this power of God's light. May the meditation of these words and your preparation be a blessing to you.